Prevalence of shingles is relatively high in the US, accounting for one million cases annually. It is reported that every third American is likely to get shingles once in their lifetime. The possibility of shingles affecting individuals who have had chickenpox is high, as the virus strain is the same as that of chickenpox. Known medically as herpes zoster, the reactivation of the chicken pox virus is the reason behind the condition. The formation of rashes is different from that of chickenpox, appearing on side of the body as a stripe of blisters. Many individuals belief that natural remedies will help alleviate the condition, while others argue that it is not supported by medical science. So, let’s check conclusively if essential oils for shingles are indeed good or bad.
What are the specific reasons for the outbreak of shingles?
The condition is primarily as a result of the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, which is responsible for chicken pox. Individuals with a weak immune system are prone to the condition. This is precisely why older individuals figure are easily afflicted by the condition.
How are essential oils for shingles effective in treating the condition?
To check out the claims that essential oils for shingles are effective in treating the condition, it is important to understand the various symptoms and manifestations associated with shingles. This will give a better idea to match the effects of essential oils and the conditions commonly associated with shingles.
Some of the more commonly reported conditions include
· Pain on one side, with the type of pain described as stabbing in nature
· Stripe of rashes, that are filled with fluid and blistering
· Fever, headache and chill
· Prior to the formation of the rashes, the patient is likely to experience a possible burning or stinging sensation in the area where the rashes will eventually break out
There could be other possible symptoms associated with the condition, such as severe body pain.
It is now time to look at the effects of essential oils on these conditions, to understand the possible efficacy of the oils.
Essential oils for shingles – how will the oils work?
Commonly suggested essential oils for shingles include geranium oil, lemon oil, thyme oil, peppermint oil and capsaicin oil. Let us now briefly look into the effects of the essential oils to understand how they will work on shingles.
Geranium Oil – The oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties in addition to being labeled as an astringent. The properties of the oil make it suitable for treating outbreaks on the skin, and it is widely used as a topical application for treating acne and various skin infections. As an analgesic it helps to treat the painful conditions associated with shingles. The powerful analgesic properties of the oil have made it highly effective in treating shingles pain, commonly known as postherpetic neuralgia. This justifies the use of geranium essential oils for shingles as a topical application alongside medication for desired outcomes.
Lemon Oil – Packed with properties that promote healing of wounds, and treating breakouts on the skin, Lemon Oil is suitable for treating shingles in combination with medication. The topical application is typically applied diluted, and the potent anti-inflammatory properties help to treat the condition quickly. Due to its potent nature, the oil is to be applied diluted, with a suitable carrier oil for the best outcomes, without any side effects.
Thyme oil – Multiple compounds in thyme oil are responsible for the mechanism of action that makes thyme essential oils for shingles effective in delivering desired outcomes. It supports the immune system, and this makes it a good choice for treating shingles. Its antiseptic properties, combined with its protective properties in protecting the skin from infections makes it effective in relieving the rashes associated with shingles.
Peppermint oil – Antipruritic properties of peppermint oil make it effective in treating the conditions commonly associated with shingles. Evidence backed results in treating rashes and inflammation makes peppermint oil suitable for managing shingles in combination with prescribed medication. The topical application helps speed up the healing process, helping patients to experience relief faster.
Capsaicin oil – Considered as one among the best medicinal herbs, essential oils of capsaicin offer tremendous benefits. One of the properties that are directly related to treating shingles is the pain relieving action of capsaicin oil. Nerve pain is associated with shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) and its alleviation offers significant relief to patients suffering from the condition.
Essential oils for shingles effective only in conjunction with medication
It is important to understand that essential oils for shingles will work only in combination with medication. By itself, essential oil will have effects that will not entirely change the condition. Essential oils have properties that alleviate the condition, but it is necessary to treat the condition. The combination of medication and alleviating topical solutions will help to speed up the process of healing.
Education: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Florida. Experience: 5 years as a pharmacist and medical writer, creating content on medication management and pharmaceutical news for healthcare blogs and patient education sites.
